The 1986 Chrysler LeBaron was part of Chrysler's K-car platform, produced from 1977 to 1995. For 1986, it was available as a coupe, convertible, and sedan, with prominent trims like the base, GTC, and coupe/convertible specific trims. These cars were known for their relatively affordable pricing, appealing to a broad range of buyers seeking stylish, front-wheel-drive transportation. The convertible option, in particular, contributed significantly to its popularity and iconic status in the 1980s.
The Good
The 1986 LeBaron offered a stylish, European-inspired design, especially the convertible, evoking a sense of freedom. Its front-wheel-drive platform provided competent handling for its era, and the available turbocharged engines offered spirited performance. Fuel efficiency was generally respectable, making it a practical choice for daily driving. For many, it represented an attainable piece of aspirational motoring.
The Bad
Potential buyers should be aware of common issues like rust, particularly in the lower body panels and wheel wells. Electrical gremlins, including problems with the power windows, locks, and dashboard instruments, are also frequently reported. Transmission issues and the aging of plastic components in the interior and engine bay are other points to scrutinize.
1986 Chrysler LeBaron: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 1986 Chrysler LeBaron was primarily offered with a 2.2L inline-4 engine, available in naturally aspirated and turbocharged variants. A larger 2.5L inline-4 was also an option.
- Horsepower:
- Base 2.2L: Approximately 88-96 horsepower.
- 2.2L Turbo: Approximately 146 horsepower.
- 2.5L: Approximately 97-101 horsepower.
- 2.5L Turbo (later in the model year or specific trims): Could offer around 105-135 horsepower.
- Fuel Economy: Varied depending on the engine and transmission. Generally, expect combined MPG figures in the range of 20-25 MPG, with naturally aspirated engines being more efficient than turbocharged ones.
- 0-60 Times: Highly dependent on the engine and transmission. Naturally aspirated models could take upwards of 10-12 seconds, while the turbocharged variants could achieve 0-60 in the 8-9 second range.
- Towing Capacity: The Chrysler LeBaron was not designed for towing and does not have a specified towing capacity.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base: Standard amenities, often with manual windows and locks, basic AM/FM radio.
- GTC (Grand Touring Coupe): Often included sportier suspension, alloy wheels, upgraded interior trim, power windows and locks, and premium sound systems. May have had optional leather seats.
- Convertible Models: Standard power top, often with more premium interior appointments than the sedan or coupe equivalents.
- Optional Features: Air conditioning, cruise control, power seats, premium sound systems, anti-lock brakes (ABS) on some models.
1986 Chrysler LeBaron Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1986 |
| Make | Chrysler |
| Model | LeBaron |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 2-Door Sedan |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | DETROIT |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.5L I4 |
| Engine Size | 2.5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 1986 Chrysler LeBaron Have?
The 1986 Chrysler LeBaron, like many vehicles of its era, is susceptible to a range of common problems that impact its long-term reliability. One of the most persistent issues is electrical system failures. Owners frequently report problems with the power windows and locks not functioning, dashboard warning lights illuminating incorrectly, and intermittent issues with the radio and other electronic accessories. The automatic transmission, particularly the A413 and A604 (Ultradrive), can be a point of concern, with reports of harsh shifting, slipping, and outright failure, especially if not properly maintained.
Mechanical issues can include coolant leaks from the radiator and hoses, and the 2.2L and 2.5L engines, especially the turbocharged variants, can experience issues with the turbocharger itself, leading to a loss of power and increased oil consumption. Head gasket failures have also been noted.
Body integrity is another area where the LeBaron often shows its age. Rust is a significant concern, particularly on the lower body panels, rocker arms, wheel wells, and around the trunk lid. For convertible models, the fabric top and its sealing mechanisms can degrade over time, leading to leaks and wind noise.
While there were recalls issued for various Chrysler models during this period, specific widespread recalls for the 1986 LeBaron that drastically altered its long-term reliability are not as prominently documented as some other issues. However, ongoing maintenance and addressing minor problems promptly are crucial to preventing major failures. Owners who have meticulously maintained their LeBarons, including regular fluid changes and timely repairs, tend to report higher satisfaction with their vehicle's longevity. Conversely, neglected vehicles often succumb to the cumulative effects of these common problems.
Mechanical issues can include coolant leaks from the radiator and hoses, and the 2.2L and 2.5L engines, especially the turbocharged variants, can experience issues with the turbocharger itself, leading to a loss of power and increased oil consumption. Head gasket failures have also been noted.
Body integrity is another area where the LeBaron often shows its age. Rust is a significant concern, particularly on the lower body panels, rocker arms, wheel wells, and around the trunk lid. For convertible models, the fabric top and its sealing mechanisms can degrade over time, leading to leaks and wind noise.
While there were recalls issued for various Chrysler models during this period, specific widespread recalls for the 1986 LeBaron that drastically altered its long-term reliability are not as prominently documented as some other issues. However, ongoing maintenance and addressing minor problems promptly are crucial to preventing major failures. Owners who have meticulously maintained their LeBarons, including regular fluid changes and timely repairs, tend to report higher satisfaction with their vehicle's longevity. Conversely, neglected vehicles often succumb to the cumulative effects of these common problems.
How long will the 1986 Chrysler LeBaron last?
Estimating average mileage for a 1986 Chrysler LeBaron is challenging due to their age and varied usage. However, well-maintained examples can reasonably be expected to last between 150,000 to 200,000 miles. Cars that have been regularly serviced, with consistent oil changes and attention to potential problem areas like the transmission and electrical systems, can often exceed this. The long-term durability is heavily influenced by owner maintenance habits. Cars subjected to harsh climates or infrequent upkeep are prone to significant rust and mechanical deterioration, leading to a shorter service life. The K-car platform itself is relatively robust, but its components, particularly the turbocharged engines and early automatic transmissions, require diligent care to ensure longevity.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1986 Chrysler LeBaron offered a modest array of technology and safety features for its time, reflecting the automotive trends of the mid-1980s. Entertainment systems were primarily basic AM/FM radios, with optional upgrades to include cassette players and more powerful speaker systems, often marketed as "premium sound." Features like power windows, power door locks, and cruise control were available, particularly on higher trim levels like the GTC or as optional additions to base models. Air conditioning was also a common, though not universal, feature.
In terms of driver assistance, the options were very limited. Anti-lock braking systems (ABS) began appearing on some Chrysler vehicles around this period, and might have been an optional feature on select 1986 LeBaron models, offering a degree of enhanced braking control. However, modern driver-assistance technologies such as traction control, lane departure warning, or adaptive cruise control were non-existent.
Safety features were focused on passive protection. Standard equipment typically included three-point seatbelts in the front and lap belts in the rear, along with crumple zones designed to absorb impact energy. Some models might have featured padded dashboards and interior surfaces.
Crash-test ratings for vehicles from this era are less standardized and comparable to today's stringent testing. The LeBaron, based on the K-car platform, generally performed averagely for its class in the crash tests conducted by organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) at the time. Specific detailed crash-test data for the 1986 model year might be scarce, but it would likely fall into the category of providing basic occupant protection rather than the advanced safety standards seen in contemporary vehicles. The focus was on structural integrity and restraint systems rather than active safety technologies.
In terms of driver assistance, the options were very limited. Anti-lock braking systems (ABS) began appearing on some Chrysler vehicles around this period, and might have been an optional feature on select 1986 LeBaron models, offering a degree of enhanced braking control. However, modern driver-assistance technologies such as traction control, lane departure warning, or adaptive cruise control were non-existent.
Safety features were focused on passive protection. Standard equipment typically included three-point seatbelts in the front and lap belts in the rear, along with crumple zones designed to absorb impact energy. Some models might have featured padded dashboards and interior surfaces.
Crash-test ratings for vehicles from this era are less standardized and comparable to today's stringent testing. The LeBaron, based on the K-car platform, generally performed averagely for its class in the crash tests conducted by organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) at the time. Specific detailed crash-test data for the 1986 model year might be scarce, but it would likely fall into the category of providing basic occupant protection rather than the advanced safety standards seen in contemporary vehicles. The focus was on structural integrity and restraint systems rather than active safety technologies.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1986 Chrysler LeBaron Prices and Market Value
When new in 1986, the Chrysler LeBaron's pricing varied by body style and trim level. Base models typically started in the range of $9,000-$10,000, while higher trims like the GTC or convertible variants could push the price closer to $15,000-$18,000. Like most vehicles from this era, the LeBaron experienced significant depreciation in its early years.
Currently, the used market prices for a 1986 LeBaron are generally quite low, reflecting its age and the availability of many examples. Well-maintained, low-mileage convertibles in good condition might fetch anywhere from $3,000 to $7,000, representing collector interest. However, most coupes and sedans in average condition can be found for under $2,000, often much less. Factors heavily affecting resale value include the condition of the convertible top (if applicable), the presence of rust, mechanical soundness, and overall originality. Low mileage and desirable color combinations can also command a slight premium.
Currently, the used market prices for a 1986 LeBaron are generally quite low, reflecting its age and the availability of many examples. Well-maintained, low-mileage convertibles in good condition might fetch anywhere from $3,000 to $7,000, representing collector interest. However, most coupes and sedans in average condition can be found for under $2,000, often much less. Factors heavily affecting resale value include the condition of the convertible top (if applicable), the presence of rust, mechanical soundness, and overall originality. Low mileage and desirable color combinations can also command a slight premium.
1986 Chrysler LeBaron Cost of Ownership
Owning a 1986 Chrysler LeBaron is generally economical, especially when purchased on the used market. Insurance costs are typically low due to its age and low market value, often falling into classic or collector car policies for well-maintained examples. Fuel costs are moderate, with naturally aspirated engines offering reasonable MPG. Maintenance is straightforward for common repairs, and parts are generally available, though some specialized components might be harder to find. Repair costs are also typically reasonable, particularly if you can perform some work yourself. Overall, the long-term ownership costs are not prohibitive, making it an affordable car to maintain and operate, especially when compared to modern vehicles.
1986 Chrysler LeBaron Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
1986 Chrysler LeBaron Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
1986 Chrysler LeBaron Insurance
Insurance for a 1986 Chrysler LeBaron is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1986 Chrysler LeBaron Compare to Other Sedan?
In 1986, the Chrysler LeBaron competed in a crowded segment of affordable front-wheel-drive coupes and convertibles. Its key rivals included the Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, Pontiac Fiero, and various Japanese offerings like the Toyota Celica and Nissan 200SX.
Performance: The LeBaron's turbocharged engines offered competitive performance for the era, especially against base models of its American rivals. However, the Mustang and Camaro generally offered more potent V6 and V8 options, providing superior acceleration and a sportier driving experience. The Fiero, while sporty in appearance, was often hampered by underpowered engines. Japanese competitors like the Celica offered a good balance of performance and refinement.
Features: The LeBaron, particularly in convertible form, offered a stylish and relatively upscale interior for its price point, often feeling more European than its domestic counterparts. Power features and optional amenities were competitive. However, rivals like the Mustang and Camaro often had more advanced suspension systems and sportier interiors.
Reliability: This is where the LeBaron often lagged behind its Japanese competitors. While it was a step up from some earlier American cars, its electrical systems and transmissions were prone to issues. The Toyota Celica and Nissan 200SX were generally known for superior long-term reliability and durability. The Ford Mustang and Chevy Camaro had their own sets of common problems, but V8 models were often more robust than smaller engines.
Price: The LeBaron was positioned as an affordable option, often undercutting similarly equipped Mustang or Camaro models, especially when factoring in the convertible option. Its price point made it accessible to a wider audience.
Alternatives: For a sportier driving experience and more robust performance, a Ford Mustang GT or Chevrolet Camaro Z28 would be superior. For superior long-term reliability and a more refined ride, a Toyota Celica GT or Nissan 200SX SE would be better choices. If a stylish convertible is the priority, the LeBaron was a strong contender in its price range, but a well-maintained, older Mazda Miata (if available in the budget) would offer a more engaging driving experience and better reliability. A well-preserved Dodge Daytona, sharing many mechanicals with the LeBaron but with a sportier coupe body style, is also a comparable alternative.
Performance: The LeBaron's turbocharged engines offered competitive performance for the era, especially against base models of its American rivals. However, the Mustang and Camaro generally offered more potent V6 and V8 options, providing superior acceleration and a sportier driving experience. The Fiero, while sporty in appearance, was often hampered by underpowered engines. Japanese competitors like the Celica offered a good balance of performance and refinement.
Features: The LeBaron, particularly in convertible form, offered a stylish and relatively upscale interior for its price point, often feeling more European than its domestic counterparts. Power features and optional amenities were competitive. However, rivals like the Mustang and Camaro often had more advanced suspension systems and sportier interiors.
Reliability: This is where the LeBaron often lagged behind its Japanese competitors. While it was a step up from some earlier American cars, its electrical systems and transmissions were prone to issues. The Toyota Celica and Nissan 200SX were generally known for superior long-term reliability and durability. The Ford Mustang and Chevy Camaro had their own sets of common problems, but V8 models were often more robust than smaller engines.
Price: The LeBaron was positioned as an affordable option, often undercutting similarly equipped Mustang or Camaro models, especially when factoring in the convertible option. Its price point made it accessible to a wider audience.
Alternatives: For a sportier driving experience and more robust performance, a Ford Mustang GT or Chevrolet Camaro Z28 would be superior. For superior long-term reliability and a more refined ride, a Toyota Celica GT or Nissan 200SX SE would be better choices. If a stylish convertible is the priority, the LeBaron was a strong contender in its price range, but a well-maintained, older Mazda Miata (if available in the budget) would offer a more engaging driving experience and better reliability. A well-preserved Dodge Daytona, sharing many mechanicals with the LeBaron but with a sportier coupe body style, is also a comparable alternative.
Final Verdict: Is the 1986 Chrysler LeBaron a Good Sedan?
The 1986 Chrysler LeBaron is ideal for nostalgia enthusiasts, budget-conscious buyers seeking a stylish convertible from the 80s, or those who appreciate its distinctive European-inspired design. It's worth buying cautiously, primarily as a used vehicle. The convertible models hold the most appeal for collectors and those seeking open-air cruising.
For potential buyers, prioritize well-maintained examples with documented service history. Inspect thoroughly for rust, electrical issues, and transmission health. Turbocharged models offer more spirited performance but can be more maintenance-intensive. A base model with the naturally aspirated engine and a manual transmission, if available, might offer better long-term reliability for everyday use. It's not a car for someone seeking cutting-edge technology or bulletproof reliability, but rather for someone who appreciates its character and is prepared for some basic upkeep.
For potential buyers, prioritize well-maintained examples with documented service history. Inspect thoroughly for rust, electrical issues, and transmission health. Turbocharged models offer more spirited performance but can be more maintenance-intensive. A base model with the naturally aspirated engine and a manual transmission, if available, might offer better long-term reliability for everyday use. It's not a car for someone seeking cutting-edge technology or bulletproof reliability, but rather for someone who appreciates its character and is prepared for some basic upkeep.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.